Optimization and structure-property correlation of black chrome solar selective coating on Copper and Nickel plated copper substrates

We used two electrode electrodeposition techniques to optimize the black chrome solar selective coatings on copper and nickel plated copper substrates. The process was optimized and optimal absorptivity ∼ 0.92 and emissivity ∼ 0.4 was achieved for black chrome coatings on bare copper substrates. The addition of nickel metal layer prior to black chrome on copper substrate resulted into lower emissivity ∼ 0.14 and enhanced absorptivity ∼0.92 or more. The electrochemical bath and process conditions were optimized for the best solar thermal response. Also, the effect of post deposition treatment of deposited samples, such as washing and drying are investigated to understand their impact on solar thermal performance in conjunction with their structure-property relations.